Property Claims Services says that tornadoes caused 37% of the insured catastrophe losses from 1994-2013, and 2013 insured losses in the U.S. totaled $10.3 billion according to Munich Re. Standard homeowners and business insurance policies cover wind damage to structures and their contents, including damage from tornadoes. Additional living expenses (ALE) for residents displaced by the tornadoes will be covered under homeowners’ policies.

According to The Weather Channel, tornadoes were also spotted in Donahue, Iowa; DeWitt and Clinton, Iowa; Peoria, Ill.; Rome, Ill.; and Walbridge, Ohio.

State Farm Insurance, headquartered in Bloomington, Ill., said it is still too early for any damage estimates. They are advising policyholders to:

• Contact their insurance company immediately by phone or online.
• Take pictures of the damaged property. Keep notes and use an inventory list to help adjusters assess the damage.
• Remove all tree debris from the structure and place it on the ground.
• If it is safe to do so, make temporary repairs to the home to prevent further damage. You may tarp your roof, cover broken windows with plywood or tarps, etc. Be sure to keep a record of time spent and all receipts for work done on the property.
• If the power has gone out, unplug any small electrical items to prevent electrical spike damage.
• Do not dispose of any damaged contents until authorized by an agent or claim representative.
• Contact licensed vendors for repair estimates. Make sure the estimates are signed by the vendor and approved by your adjuster or agent before having major damage repaired.
• Listen /obey local authorities.
• Use safety precautions when removing debris.

As the storm moves east, the East Coast is bracing for severe thunderstorms from New York down to the Gulf Coast.

April is the third most active month for tornadoes, with an average of 155. May is the highest, averaging 276, and June is the second highest with an average of 243.